The beleaguered NZ Breakers hope they'll have the services of star import Scotty Hopson back in time for their clash with the Illawarra Hawks at Spark Arena on Saturday.
The American hasn't played since he split a ligament in his knee during the win over the Cairns Taipans on October 31.
Now back to full training, Hopson has his sights set on a return to the court this weekend.
"The knee is great," said Hopson. "I've had a good couple of solid weeks of rehab, the team has done a great job, the staff have done a great job of helping me out, but I'm feeling good.
"I've done what I have to do on my part to strengthen the leg and put myself in good condition, so I'm looking forward to a good week of practice, helping the guys out, so we get things going on the right track.
"I know I've missed them like they missed me."
Given the team's on and off-court struggles - compounded by injury to Hopson's fellow backcourt gunner Corey Webster on Sunday - his return would be welcome news.
Webster has been cleared of any fracture in his left ankle, but may still have damaged ligaments that would likely see him sidelined.
Hopson was one of the Breakers' best through the early season, with per-game averages of 16.2 points and 6.6 assists in his debut campaign for the Auckland-based franchise.
The Breakers have lost five straight games and are currently mired in eighth place on the competition ladder.
